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Your Destination for Insider MMA News and OpinionFri, 09 Dec 2016 13:00:00 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.0.7Best UFC Bouts in Brazil of 2013http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/10/04/best-ufc-bouts-in-brazil-of-2013/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/10/04/best-ufc-bouts-in-brazil-of-2013/#commentsFri, 04 Oct 2013 23:00:55 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=84511The UFC invaded Brazil this year with full force after some past forays into the fight-friendly country, scheduling a slew of shows including next week’s lineup for UFC Fight Night 29. With a November stop in the South American hub also set for November, it doesn’t appear the organization will be slowing things down anytime […]

Vitor Belfort vs. Michael Bisping (UFC on FX 7 – January 19)

To the surprise of few, Bisping talked a ton of smack about Belfort leading up to their bout. After all, with some of his past actions and use of TRT, Belfort is a target prime for picking on…outside of the Octagon, that is. Bisping failed to push Belfort as planned and had his chin tested long before his foe’s cardio was submitted to any exams. The finishing sequence came in the second stanza, stemming from a headkick and ensuing strikes. Once again, Bisping’s hopes of contendership were dashed while the 36-year old Belfort reminded fans he is still one of the best 185ers in the sport.

Vitor Belfort vs. Luke Rockhold (UFC on FX 8 – May 18)

Belfort has been haunted by his highlight-reel knockout loss to Anderson Silva for a couple of years but exorcised some of the demons in May when he produced an equally memorable finish against Rockhold. The bout was aimed at determining a title-contender based on Rockhold’s status as Strikeforce champ and Belfort’s string of successes at 185 pounds. However, the tilt turned out to be far from competitive with “The Phenom” ultimately sending Rockhold to his doom with a beautiful Spinning Back Kick.

Rafael Cavalcante vs. Thiago Silva (UFC on Fuel 10 – June 8)

Silva and Cavalcante were friendly at one point in their careers but saw the relationship deteriorate as each went their separate ways. When they finally faced off over the summer, the tension between the two was palpable and helped produce one of the year’s most memorable match-ups. Silva and Cavalcante came out swinging, giving many fans reason to believe a knockout finish was all but guaranteed. Their inclination would prove to be an accurate one, as Silva blasted Cavalcante in the final minute of the first frame and settled his score with “Feijao” as definitively as possible.

Ian McCall vs. Iliarde Santos (UFC 163 – August 3)

Flyweights bring it in almost every bout and McCall-Santos was certainly no exception on that front. The fight featured a number of evenly-contested exchanges and each competitor found himself in trouble at certain points in the pairing. McCall walked away with a decision win in the end, but both men had a reason to smile once the smoke cleared after earning an extra $50,000 for the evening’s top effort.

Rafael Natal vs. Tor Troeng (UFN 28 – September 4)

Undercard action often exceeds expectations based on each athlete’s desire to boost his/her stock and such was true in September thanks to a brilliant bout in Belo Horizonte between Natal/Troeng. There were some slick scrambles on the mat, a handful of hard shots landed, and gut checks galore including Troeng’s need to dig deep early on after it looked like his evening was on the cusp of ending. The bout won’t go down as an all-time classic by any means but it was definitely a show-stealer.

Glover Teixeira vs. Ryan Bader (UFN 28 – September 4)

Teixeira entered the UFC with a ton of hype and has delivered thus far. However, the streaking contender came close to seeing his train derailed when Bader rocked him in last month’s headliner at UFC Fight Night 28. Fortunately for his fans, Teixeira quickly recovered and delivered a few punches of his own that sent Bader crashing down to the canvas. The performance landed him $50,000 for Knockout of the Night but, more importantly, also netted Teixeira a crack at the light heavyweight championship.

The UFC invaded Brazil this year with full force after some past forays into the fight-friendly country, scheduling a slew of shows including next week’s lineup for UFC Fight Night 29. With a November stop in the South American hub also set for November, it doesn’t appear the organization will be slowing things down anytime soon either. However, instead of focusing on either future event, let’s look back at some of the other excellent offerings delivered inside the Octagon with a Brazilian backdrop since the calendar turned to 2013. (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/10/04/best-ufc-bouts-in-brazil-of-2013/feed/0Top 5 UFC Fights from September 2013http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/30/top-5-ufc-fights-from-september-2013/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/30/top-5-ufc-fights-from-september-2013/#commentsMon, 30 Sep 2013 23:00:39 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=84403There were only two UFC events in September but the shows still delivered enough action to keep fans satisfied for the month. Included in the bunch was a pair of title-fights, a plethora of highlight reel finishes, and an all-time classic between light heavyweights Jon Jones-Alexander Gustafsson. With October around the corner, it’s time to […]

5. Ronaldo Souza vs. Yushin Okami (UFC Fight Night 28)

“Jacare” entered MMA as a one-dimension grappler whose BJJ brilliance made up for his rudimentary stand-up more often than not. However, Souza has certainly grown since showing up on the scene, improving his striking to the point he can now be considered a well-rounded competitor. The talented Brazilian offered up evidence of his evolution against Okami when the two tussled at UFC Fight Night 28, knocking out the seasoned veteran in less than three minutes (also marking the fastest Okami has ever been finished in his 37-fight career).

4. Renan Barao vs. Eddie Wineland (UFC 165)

There weren’t a lot of people giving Wineland a shot against Barao when the two battled it out a little more than a week ago in Toronto. As it turned out, their lack of faith in Wineland’s ability was well-placed, as Barao found his rhythm early on and never looked back. After feeling Wineland out in the opening round, Barao attacked right away in the second stanza and connected with a beautiful spinning kick to his foe’s face. The blow rocked Wineland and before long Barao was on top of him, delivering shots until being pulled off by the referee. Amazingly the win was the 31st consecutive instance of success for the uber-impressive Brazilian.

3. Rafael Natal vs. Tor Troeng (UFC Fight Night 28)

Fans who didn’t get a chance to check out the clash between Natal and Troeng based on its status as a preliminary pairing should definitely seek out the scrap sooner than later. Though Natal looked dominant at times, Troeng’s heart was on full display as he overcame early adversity and ultimately put his opponent in some precarious positions as well. The effort involved some excellent scrambles on the ground and a handful of powerful, precise strikes including one shot that nearly ended Troeng’s night. The bout was named the show’s Fight of the Night and understandably so based on the entertainment level involved.

2. Glover Teixeira vs. Ryan Bader (UFC Fight Night 28)

The match-up may have lasted a little less than three minutes but Bader-Teixeira delivered an entire fight’s worth of action in the period. The two talented light heavyweights slugged it out after testing each others’ takedown defense, letting fans know there was a good chance a finish would surface at some point in the scrap. While it appeared Bader was on the cusp of doing just that and pulling off an upset in the process by taking Teixeira out, such would not come to pass, as the Brazilian brawler caught him with counter hook and sent the TUF 8 winner to the mat where he was pounded out shortly thereafter.

1. Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson (UFC 165)

There was no doubting the potential for fireworks when light heavyweight champ Jones met the similarly-sized Gustafsson in the UFC 165 headliner. However, few fans realized how incredible the effort would actually be. Gustafsson peppered Jones with strikes from early on, busting his foe’s face up badly along the way. He also managed to stuff the majority of Jones’ takedown attempts while scoring one of his own. Regardless, Jones found a way to battle back and dished out damage of his own en route to a closely contested decision nod. The fight was SO good plenty of people have labeled it as not only the best title-fight in light heavyweight history but one of the greatest scraps of all time.

There were only two UFC events in September but the shows still delivered enough action to keep fans satisfied for the month. Included in the bunch was a pair of title-fights, a plethora of highlight reel finishes, and an all-time classic between light heavyweights Jon Jones-Alexander Gustafsson. With October around the corner, it’s time to take a quick look back at some of the Octagon action from the past 30 days. (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/30/top-5-ufc-fights-from-september-2013/feed/0UFC Fight Night 28’s Biggest Winners: What’s Next?http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/05/ufc-fight-night-28s-biggest-winners-whats-next/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/05/ufc-fight-night-28s-biggest-winners-whats-next/#commentsThu, 05 Sep 2013 21:00:30 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=83774Last night the Octagon made a stop in Brazil where blood was spilled, consciousness faded, and title-shots were earned thanks to the lineup for UFC Fight Night 28. Though many of the evening’s top performances came from regional studs still making a name for themselves amongst international fans, some of the main players also produced […]

Lucas Martins was overwhelmed in his UFC debut, facing one of the lightweight's toughest draws in Edson Barboza, but has bounced back nicely since the initial stumble with two straight finishes including his 70-second submission of Ramiro Hernandez at UFC Fight Night 28. He's only 24, so the UFC would be wise to bring him along slowly. Potential options for his next pairing could be Danny Castillo and Daron Cruickshank.

Ali Bagautinov (11-2 / Defeated Marcos Vinicius via TKO)

Ali Bagautinov looked impressive in his UFC debut by finishing off Marcos Vinicius. With nine straight wins in the rear-view mirror, Bagautinov could be plugged into nearly any match-up at flyweight and it would work. Possibilities include Ian McCall or the winner of upcoming bouts between Chris Cariaso-Illiarde Santos and John Lineker-Phil Harris.

Piotr Hallman (14-1 / Defeated Francisco Trinaldo via Submission)

After dealing with a flurry of offense in the opening round including some brutal kicks to the body, Polish finisher Piotr Hallman battled back to take advantage of a winded Francisco Trinaldo and scored a submission win. Though he's won ten consecutive tilts and stopped all but one of the foes he's beaten, there's no reason to throw Hallman to the lions. Match-ups with Roger Bowling, Thiago Tavares, or Al Iaquinta would make sense.

Joseph Benavidez (19-3 / Defeated Jussier Formiga via TKO)

Since Duane Ludwig showed up at Team Alpha Male the squad has gone 17-0. The gym's latest instance of success came thanks to Joseph Benavidez who beat former #1 flyweight Jussier Formiga down with relative ease. Without a doubt his next bout should involve divisional gold and the chance to avenge a Split Decision defeat to champ Demetrious Johnson.

Ronaldo Souza (19-3 / Defeated Yushin Okami via TKO)

Fans were always aware of Ronaldo Souza's sublime skill on the mat. However, until last night, few realized how powerful "Jacare" was. That changed with Souza's stoppage of the always-game Yushin Okami in the opening round of action. With the middleweight title tied up, and most of the 185ers worthy of Souza's time busy, chances are Souza will have to wait for fights to unfold between the likes of Costa Philippou-Francis Carmont, Mark Munoz-Michael Bisping, and Luke Rockhold-Tim Boetsch before having a better idea of who his next opponent might be.

Glover Teixeira (22-2 / Defeated Ryan Bader via TKO)

With twenty straight instances of success including five wins in the UFC, Glover Teixeira has gone from a heavily-hyped fighter to a man who deserves a title-shot. Luckily, UFC President Dana White agrees with said sentiment, and has announced Teixeira's next adversary will emerge when light heavyweight champ Jon Jones defends his strap against Alexander Gustafsson later this month.

Last night the Octagon made a stop in Brazil where blood was spilled, consciousness faded, and title-shots were earned thanks to the lineup for UFC Fight Night 28. Though many of the evening’s top performances came from regional studs still making a name for themselves amongst international fans, some of the main players also produced impressive results. Here’s a look at what could/should be next for some of the show’s brightest stars including Joseph Benavidez, Ronaldo Souza, and Glover Teixeira… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/05/ufc-fight-night-28s-biggest-winners-whats-next/feed/0UFC Fight Night 28’s Biggest Losers: What’s Next?http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/05/ufc-fight-night-28s-biggest-losers-whats-next/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/05/ufc-fight-night-28s-biggest-losers-whats-next/#commentsThu, 05 Sep 2013 15:00:19 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=83767The lineup for UFC Fight Night 28 was full of action and produced a number of memorable highlights. When the dust settled, eleven competitors stood tall while eleven others were left wondering whether or not they’d seen action in the Octagon for the final time. Here’s a look at what the future may have in […]

Yuri Villefort (6-3 / Lost via Split Decision to Sean Spencer)

Though Villefort’s bout with Spencer was closely contested, the end result marks his third consecutive stumble. As such, Villefort is likely to be released. However, he has potential and could definitely land a gig fighting in one of the numerous second-tier promotions out there like Bellator, WSOF, Legacy FC, etc..

Wisniewski has been around the sport for awhile and seemed to finally be entering his prime when he signed with the UFC, sporting a six-fight winning streak at the time. He’s since lost three in a row and, as a result, is destined for a shot on the regional scene. Unfortunately, at 31 years old, Wednesday night likely marked the last time fans will see Wisniewski in the Octagon.

Tor Troeng (16-5-1 / Lost via Unanimous Decision to Rafael Natal)

Troeng was completely out-classed at times by Natal but he weathered the storm and never gave up. That heart, along with a five-fight run prior to the stumble, should be enough to earn the Swedish finisher another shot on the sport’s biggest stage if not two more goes under the UFC banner.

Marcus Vinicius (20-5-1 / Lost via TKO to Ali Bagautinov)

With a second straight strike-based defeat Vinicius is likely on his way out of the UFC. The one saving grace for Vinicius could be his size since the organization needs flyweights, but beyond that the leash he's on is extremely short. If cut, he should excel on the regional scene in Brazil but do little more than wow local fans. If not, fights with Darren Uyenoyama or Louis Gaudinot make sense given their similar standings in the division.

Francisco Trinaldo (13-3 / Lost via Submission to Piotr Hallman)

Though “Massaranduba” is 35 years old and only good for about a round-and-a-half of action, Trinaldo remains one of the most beloved Brazilians in the UFC and has some additional job security as a result given the organization’s interest in the South American nation. Expect to see him back in the Octagon the first time the UFC promotes a 2014 show in Brazil.

Jussier Formiga (15-3 / Lost via TKO to Joseph Benavidez)

Formiga came into the UFC as one of the top 125ers in MMA but has been stopped with strikes in two of his three tilts. He’s an excellent grappler but hasn’t show much beyond that. However, he’s definitely good enough to get another go in the Octagon. Fight-wise, Ian McCall would make for a solid match-up at some point in early 2014.

Yushin Okami (29-8 / Lost via TKO to Ronaldo Souza)

Outside of a time-traveler with a sports almanac from the future – we’re looking at YOU Biff Tannen – it’s a safe bet nobody picked “Jacare” to blast Okami into outer-space given the Brazilian’s BJJ background. However, MMA’s penchant for being tough to predict came through again came through and Okami’s evening ending in the opening round of action. There are plenty of possibilities for a perennial contender like Okami including bouts with Brad Tavares, Derek Brunson, Andrew Craig, or even a rematch with Tim Boetsch.

Ryan Bader (15-4 / Lost via TKO to Glover Teixeira)

“Darth” was taken out by force – pun intended – and once again sent a few rungs down the contendership ladder after looking sharp in a couple of clashes. He is quickly becoming a gatekeeper, giving way to potential pairings with up-and-comers like Ovince St. Preux, though Bader would be just at home in a rumble with Mauricio Rua or the winner of next month’s meeting between Thiago Silva-Matt Hamill.

The lineup for UFC Fight Night 28 was full of action and produced a number of memorable highlights. When the dust settled, eleven competitors stood tall while eleven others were left wondering whether or not they’d seen action in the Octagon for the final time. Here’s a look at what the future may have in store for some of the event’s biggest losers… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

September 4, 2013 — The Octagon continues it’s global invasion at UFC Fight Night 28: Teixeira vs. Bader in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This time with a light-heavyweight headliner, featuring the two heavy hitters Ryan Bader and Glover Teixeira, including a co-main event that holds a middleweight matchup of two strong ground fighters, Jacare Souza and Yushin Okami.

It all goes down TONIGHT! Starting @ 4:30 ET/1:30 PT for the Facebook/Youtube preliminary fight. Tune in to Fox Sports 1 after that for the remainder of the prelim bouts @ 5:00 ET/2:00 PT, then the main card action gets underway @ 7:00 ET/4:00 PT.

Main Card (Fox Sports 1):

MAIN EVENT!

– Glover Teixeira vs. Ryan Bader:

Round One: Bader comes out and closes the gap right away. Teixeira lands a quick punch and Bader returns with his own before looking for a takedown, he doesn’t get it and tries a guillotine choke. Teixeira wiggles his way free and they are back in the center. Teixeira lands a winging left and Bader counters nicely and drops Teixeira ad he’s all over him! Teizeira with his back on the fence and he’s rolling with the punches nicely. Not much accuracy from Bader as Teixeira lands a clean right left counter that drops Bader! Teixeira gets on top and the nonstop barrage of strikes forces Herb Dean to rescue Bader. Smooth!

Teixeira defeats Bader by TKO @ 2:55 of Round One

– Ronaldo Souza vs. Yushin Okami:

Round One: Jacare comes out kicking and Okami returns. Big right from Jacare lands on Okami and this is the beginning of the end. Okamu overcomes the early onslaught, only to get hit again when they make it back up. This time Jacare lands one flush and Okami hits the canvas! Jacare is all over him and the final follow up shots bring an end to the bout. Impressive display of killer instinct from Jacare.

Souza via TKO @ 3:07 of Round One

– Joseph Benavidez vs. Jussier Formiga:

Round One: Benavidez circles and begins trying to figure out Formiga’s timing right away. Formiga counters the clinch with a left over the top. Benavidez keeps pressing him backwards and uses his volume punches to do so. Not much going on until a big right left from Benavidez stuns Formiga. Another left followed by a stepping knee floors Formiga and Benavidez pounces on him for the first round stoppage!

Benavidez via TKO @ 3:07 of Round One

– Francisco Trinaldo vs. Piotr Hallman:

Round One:

Round Two: Both fighter start out unwilling to take a step back. Hallman the aggressor and Trinaldo is having none of it as he whips several kicks to the body that stun Hallman. He can’t take much more of this beating. Trinaldo continues with the body attack but Hallman is figuring out his timing while hurt and he’s not folding under pressure. Trinaldo gets a takedown and finishes the round on top.

Round Two: Trinaldo goes high with a kick and gets taken down for it. Trinaldo tries a reversal and doesn’t get one. Hallman aggressive with his standup once they get back to their feet and Trinaldo is forced to shoot, it;s stuffed and Hallman stays on him with big punches before locking ahold of a kimura from top. It’s done. The tap comes and this fight is over.

Hallman wins by Kimura @ 3:50 of Round Two

– Rafael Natal vs. Tor Troeng:

Round One: Both start by trading punches and kicks and they’re gauging the distance. Big right from Natal floors Troeng and he’s out on his feet. As Troeng falls back, Natal lands on him and tries to get the TKO, but Troeng survives as Natal isn’t really aiming with his punches and freaking out trying to finish him. NOPE! Natal can’t get it and looks to secure side control. They make it to their feet and Troeng gets some good punches in before the round ends.

Round Two: Another big right from Natal sends Tor to the canvas and Natal is all over him! Tor withstands and finds his way out of a following guillotine attempt before getting back to his feet. They go back down and Tor tries a sweep and can’t complete it. Natal goes for more ground-and-pound briefly before Tor finds his way to his feet. They trade punches and kicks until another takedown attempt from Natal comes close, but Tor stuffs it and lands on top. Natal reverses him as the round ends.

Round Three: Natal continues with his straight forward attack and gets Tor up against the fence and in the clinch. Tor turns him and gets Natal on the fence and goes for a lift, but Natal has a guillotine in tight! It looks locked, Tor falls to his back and rolls to his side. Natal keeps squeezing but Tor is too tough. Tor in top position now and he’s finally looking to score some damage in the final minutes. Natal finds the sweep and gets his back, landing light punches from on top to finish strong.

Natal by unanimous decision

– Ronaldo Souza vs. Yushin Okami:

Round One:

– Joseph Benavidez vs. Jussier Formiga:

Round One:

– Ali Bagautinov vs. Marcos Vinicius:

Round One: Ali Baga comes out and gets the clinch early. Some hard punches land for the russian and he’s all over Vinicius and going for the TKO finish. Vin shows tremendous resolve and makes it out of the situation, but he gets caught in a guillotine that looks pretty tight. Vinny squirms out and Vinny looks to get the back. Vinny works for the arm off the rear naked choke attempt and Bagautinov secures a takedown in the final seconds of the opening round.

Round Two: Both fighters trade big kicks bef0re Bagautinov takes Vinicius to the ground, but Vin makes his way back to his feet after little is done with the takedown from Bagautinov, but he stays relentless on it and gets it again while landing in Vin’s guard. Bagautinov keeps good posture and isn’t letting Vin get anything going from bottom. Elbows from his back land for Vinicius and he continues to go for sweeps and triangles from his back but Bagautinov stays too strong on top. He gets up suddenly and they trade some before another takedown is secured by the Russian.

Round Three: They’re both looking tired from all the constant effort they have put forth thus far. A few takedown attempts from Bagautinov gets tired of trying and finally lets his hands go. Vin wasn’t expecting it and just stands there as the Russian’s straight left smashes into his face. END OF THE FIGHT!

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/04/ufc-fight-night-28-teixeira-x-bader-live-play-by-play-full-fight-results/feed/2UFC Fight Night 28 Main Card Pickshttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/04/ufc-fight-night-28-main-card-picks/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/04/ufc-fight-night-28-main-card-picks/#commentsWed, 04 Sep 2013 14:45:01 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=83735For the second straight week the UFC is delivering a midweek treat in the form of a Wednesday fight card! This time around the lineup comes with the backdrop of Brazil in the form of UFC Fight Night 28, an event unfolding Minas Gerais featuring some of the nation’s favorites such as Ronaldo Souza and […]

Bagautinov could definitely pull off the upset as a newcomer on a solid winning streak and with plenty of finishes to his credit. However, Vinicius’ own ability to put foes away had produced a perfect 20-for-20 mark in terms of scoring stoppages en route to victory. This time around, Vinicius will pick up his first decision nod based on his adversary’s durability (but it won’t be pretty).

Troeng is overmatched in this one, as Natal has more experience against better competition and plenty of weapons in his arsenal to work with. The Brazilian crowd could also play a factor in the result as far as its effect on Troeng’s nerves and Natal’s energy.

“Massaranduba” doesn’t have a ton of professional fights to his credit for a 35 years old but he’s quickly established himself as a competitor worth watching. Trinaldo is 3-1 in the Octagon with the loss coming to the always-game Gleison Tibau, while Hallman is a promotional newcomer walking into hostile territory. Hallman has a bright future, but he doesn’t quite have the overall skill-set to deal with Trinaldo’s attack over a fifteen-minute period.

Benavidez is the best 125er on the UFC roster outside of champ Demetrious Johnson and will show such against Formiga. The Team Alpha Male staple isn’t likely to get caught in a submission or out-grappled, Formiga’s only true paths to victory, while Benavidez packs power and takedown/top control unlike any Formiga is prepared to deal with.

Souza is a superb grappler with improving hands but Okami is a contender-killer. His size, strength, and seasoning should prove to be legitimate challenges for “Jacare” to deal with, plus he’s also found a way to avoid being tapped out in a 36-fight career making it less-than-likely he’ll end up in a precarious position this time around as well.

If Bader had a better chin he’d have a solid chance of ending Teixeira’s run towards a title-shot based on his wrestling ability. However, “Darth” doesn’t, and thus he’s susceptible to strikes. Beyond that, his BJJ defense isn’t all that great either and Teixeira has the ability to finish fights from any position with a plethora of techniques.

RESULT: Glover Teixeira def. Ryan Bader via TKO Round 1

For the second straight week the UFC is delivering a midweek treat in the form of a Wednesday fight card! This time around the lineup comes with the backdrop of Brazil in the form of UFC Fight Night 28, an event unfolding Minas Gerais featuring some of the nation’s favorites such as Ronaldo Souza and Glover Teixeira. Action starts at 4:30 PM EST online before FOXSports 1 takes over with a handful of prelims and the evening’s featured match-ups 30 minutes later. Here’s a breakdown of the main card clashes… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/04/ufc-fight-night-28-main-card-picks/feed/0Best UFC Fighters from Brazilhttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/03/best-ufc-fighters-from-brazil/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/03/best-ufc-fighters-from-brazil/#commentsTue, 03 Sep 2013 15:41:14 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=83715The Octagon is back in Brazil tomorrow night for UFC Fight Night 28, an event sure to feature fervent fans and furious fisticuffs. Two of the organization’s top fighters, Ronaldo Souza and Glover Teixeira, are both set for action at the event and also happen to hail from the South American hub. Here’s a quick […]

Ronaldo Souza (18-3 / 1 TKO, 14 Submissions, 3 Decisions)

Ronaldo Souza is as slick a submission specialist as you'll find at any weight, competing as a high-level BJJer before ever getting into MMA. Beyond that, "Jacare" is also a former Strikeforce champion with eight wins in his last nine efforts.

Glover Teixeira (21-2 / 12 TKOs, 6 Submissions, 3 Decisions)

Glover Teixeira entered the UFC with a lot of hype and has gone on to win four fights with impressive showings in each. Additionally, the soft-spoken scrapper happens to be on a nineteen-fight winning streak, showing just how tough Teixeira is to beat.

Demian Maia (18-4 / 3 TKOs, 9 Submissions, 6 TKOs)

Demian Maia represents the world of BJJ in as fine a fashion as could be asked for. He's classy and technically sound. While he was a successful middleweight, Maia is 3-0 since dropping down to welterweight and could earn a title-shot by beating Josh Koscheck when they face off next month.

Junior dos Santos (16-2 / 12 TKOs, 2 Submissions, 2 Decisions)

Junior dos Santos immediately announced his presence in the UFC with a knockout of Fabricio Werdum. Since then he's beaten stand-outs like Roy Nelson, Shane Carwin, Frank Mir, and Cain Velasquez (not to mention won divisional gold).

Vitor Belfort (23-10 / 16 TKOs, 3 Submissions, 4 Decisions)

Vitor Belfort has been impressing fans for more than a decade with his hand speed and knockout power. A former champion and current title-contender, "The Phenom" owns notable past victories over Michael Bisping and Rich Franklin.

Lyoto Machida (19-4 / 7 TKOs, 2 Submissions, 10 Decisions)

Lyoto Machida's karate background has made him a polarizing fighter in that fans either love his technical prowess or despise his cautious approach to confrontation. Regardless, Machida's strategy is effective and has made him one of the toughest draws at 205 pounds.

Fabricio Werdum (17-5-1 / 5 TKOs, 9 Submissions, 3 Decisions)

Fabricio Werdum came into MMA as a BJJ specialist and has quickly developed his striking to be a threat in multiple areas. Among his numerous finishes are those over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Fedor Emelianenko.

Renan Barao (30-1 / 6 TKOs, 14 Submissions, 10 Decisions)

Renan Barao may be "interim" champ at 135 pounds but plenty of fans consider him the real deal. He has come out with his hand raised in an incredible 30 consecutive clashes and outclassed every opponent he's seen inside the Octagon.

Jose Aldo (23-1 / 14 TKOs, 2 Submissions, 7 Decisions)

Featherweight champion Jose Aldo is a phenomenal fighter. His only loss came eight years ago, while he's picked up 13 wins under the Zuffa banner including those over Urijah Faber, Cub Swanson, Chan Sung Jung, and Frankie Edgar.

Anderson Silva (33-5 / 20 TKOs, 6 Submission, 7 Decisions)

Anderson Silva is considered by many to be the greatest fighter to ever grace the Octagon. Though he's coming off a loss to Chris Weidman, past performances against foes like Forrest Griffin, Vitor Belfort, Chael Sonnen, and Dan Henderson can't be dismissed.

The Octagon is back in Brazil tomorrow night for UFC Fight Night 28, an event sure to feature fervent fans and furious fisticuffs. Two of the organization’s top fighters, Ronaldo Souza and Glover Teixeira, are both set for action at the event and also happen to hail from the South American hub. Here’s a quick look at Souza, Teixeira, and some of the other premier pugilists to call Brazil home who also happen to be currently competing at a high level… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/03/best-ufc-fighters-from-brazil/feed/0“Must See” UFC Scraps in September 2013http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/02/must-see-ufc-scraps-in-september-2013/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/02/must-see-ufc-scraps-in-september-2013/#commentsMon, 02 Sep 2013 17:45:03 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=83688September isn’t necessarily a busy one for the UFC with only two events (UFC Fight Night 28 and UFC 165), but both shows feature a number of interesting match-ups including two title-shots and a handful of bouts with contendership implications at play. Check out a look at some of the scraps fans can look forward […]

Benavdez (18-3) and Formiga (15-2) are two of the top flyweights in the world and their tilt is sure to be in contention for "Fight of the Night" honors. Benavidez is a bit more well-rounded, but Formiga's submission game can never be discounted.

Yushin Okami vs. Ronaldo Souza (UFN 28 – 9/4 - Minas Gerais, Brazil)

Glover Teixeira vs. Ryan Bader (UFN 28 – 9/4 - Minas Gerais, Brazil)

Teixeira (21-2) is on an impressive nineteen-fight winning streak and could lock up a title-shot by beating Bader (15-3). However, "Darth" is a decorated wrestler with knockout power and could definitely pull off the upset.

Ivan Menjivar vs. Kid Yamamoto

This bout isn't on a lot of fans' radar but Menjivar (25-10) and Yamamoto (18-6) are two seasoned veterans who both need a win. The importance of finding victory coupled with their technical prowess should provide a unexpected treat for fans watching the UFC 165 prelims.

Philippou (12-2) is finally back after an injury-related layoff and hungry to re-establish himself in the division. In Carmont (21-7), Philippou will face an athletic adversary with a lot of hype and desire to match.

Barao (30-1) has worked his way into "pound-for-pound" territory with 30 straight victories including success against the likes of Brad Pickett, Michael McDonald, and Urijah Faber. While Wineland (20-8-1) is an underdog, the former WEC champ packs power and is as fine a test as can be found in the division.

Jones (18-1) will be looking for a record-breaking sixth consecutive defense of his light heavyweight belt when he meets Gustafsson, a 15-1 Swede with a polished arsenal of attacks and the height/length to match Jones'.

September isn’t necessarily a busy one for the UFC with only two events (UFC Fight Night 28 and UFC 165), but both shows feature a number of interesting match-ups including two title-shots and a handful of bouts with contendership implications at play. Check out a look at some of the scraps fans can look forward to over the next month… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/09/02/must-see-ufc-scraps-in-september-2013/feed/1Ronaldo Souza open to fighting Vitor Belfort but focused on Yushin Okamihttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/08/12/ronaldo-souza-open-to-fighting-vitor-belfort-but-focused-on-yushin-okami/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/08/12/ronaldo-souza-open-to-fighting-vitor-belfort-but-focused-on-yushin-okami/#commentsMon, 12 Aug 2013 21:30:18 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=82969In a little less than a month UFC middleweight Ronaldo Souza will have a chance to prove he belongs in the discussion for a title-shot thanks to a tilt with Yushin Okami at UFC Fight Night 28. Okami is a former contender and seen by many as one of the toughest draws at 185 pounds […]

In a little less than a month UFC middleweight Ronaldo Souza will have a chance to prove he belongs in the discussion for a title-shot thanks to a tilt with Yushin Okami at UFC Fight Night 28. Okami is a former contender and seen by many as one of the toughest draws at 185 pounds due to his size, technique, and overall success in the Octagon.

Though “Jacare” would love to challenge for divisional gold if victorious against Okami, he also knows fellow Brazilian Vitor Belfort is ahead of him in the rankings and will likely be called upon to face the winner of the championship clash at UFC 168 between Chris Weidman-Anderson Silva. As such, Souza is putting all of his energy into preparing for Okami and will let the rest of the pieces fall in place once he come out of the clash with his hand raised.

“My focus is not getting the submission or the knockout, it is getting the win. I’m going there to win and I will win,” said Souza in an interview with MMAFighting. “I have been training with some new talents from X-Gym, they are helping me a lot. I have trained my whole life with guys that are that hungry, so you can bet I’ll be fine there. I’m ready for this challenge.”

Souza continued on to explain he was open to an eventual pairing with “The Phenom” but wasn’t expecting it, especially given Belfort’s desire to wait for his crack at the belt rather than risk his spot in line by fighting at middleweight beforehand.

“Of course I’d like [to fight Vitor]. But that’s up to the UFC,” Souza stated. “I believe Vitor showed, after his last two fights that he should fight for the title. He destroyed everybody and is the next contender. But it’s up to the UFC, I’d accept that fight.”

The 18-3 Souza is on a four-fight winning streak including a first-frame submission of Chris Camozzi in his UFC debut. Comparably, Okami is 29-7 and come out triumphant in three consecutive clashes. Their bout will serve as the co-headliner of the September 4 show in Brazil.